Macro Photography

Macro Photography is certainly one of the most satisfying forms of photography and easy to learn.

A practical way for defining macro photography is by the strength of the lens, or how nearby it can focus. For true macro photography, you will need a lens that focuses right down to a 1:1 range. For 35mm film, your camera has to have the ability to focus on an area as small as 24×36mm, because this is the size of the image on the film. After having the film developed, the picture of the subject on the negative or slide will be exactly the same size as the subject photographed.

There are many applications for macro photography like flowers, plants, butterflies, minerals, snowflakes, leaves, etc. Your own backyard, a local garden, beach or forest can provide you with hours of fun with macro photography.  

Macro photography isn't always centered on the natural world, collectors use macro photography to record coins, stamps and other collectibles that are very small. Some people even use macro photography for documenting their possessions for insurance purposes. Even the most advanced photographers can be challenged by this form of photography. The only element that could limit your imagination is your imagination!

Go out and buy yourself a dedicated macro lens if you are interested in macro photography. SLR digital cameras with interchangeable lenses are perfect for macro photography .If you're primarily interested in outdoor photography, consider at least a  180mm or 200mm macro lens.